This month’s discussion title for io9.com’s bookclub is none other than Ian Tregillis‘s magnificent latest novel, THE MECHANICAL. So, if you are a fan of the novel, then you should head on over and join in the discussion. We expect spoilers, though, so if you haven’t read the novel yet (ahem, it’s out now), then proceed with caution.

The first novel in the Alchemy Wars series, THE MECHANICAL is published by Orbit Books. Here’s the synopsis…

My name is Jax.

That is the name granted to me by my human masters. 

I am a slave. 

But I shall be free.

Set in a world that might have been, of mechanical men and alchemical dreams, the new novel from Ian Tregillis confirms his place as one of the most original new voices in speculative fiction.

THE MECHANICAL has received some fantastic reviews since its release. Here’s just a small selection…

‘Launches a series with this superb alternate history filled with clockwork men and ethical questions on the nature of free will… Tregillis’s complex setting is elegantly delivered, and the rich characters and gripping story really make this tale soar.’ — Publishers Weekly (Starred Review)

‘Tregillis never fails to impress, and his writing and stories seem to be getting better with each novel. This book is truly unlike anything I’ve ever read before, and it’s my favorite work of his to date. I can’t wait to see what the next installment in The Alchemy Wars will bring.’ — BiblioSanctum

‘An excellent novel. Truly excellent: I have rarely found myself this gripped by a book … Tregillis has an excellent eye for characterisation, and a master’s grasp of how to build tension to a breaking point… a thing of beauty…’ — Locus

Ian Tregillis is also the author of the critically-acclaimed Milkweed Triptych – BITTER SEEDS, THE COLDEST WAR and NECESSARY EVIL – which is also published by Orbit Books in the UK.

Zeno represents Ian Tregillis in the UK and translation, on behalf of Kay McCauley of Aurous, Inc.